Global Major Cities Guide

Institutions preserving and showcasing art, culture, history, and science in Ottawa.

Sections

1. Canadian Museum of History

Location: 100 Laurier Street, Gatineau, QC (just across the Ottawa River from downtown Ottawa)
Category: History and Culture
Entry Cost:
- Adults: $21
- Seniors (65+): $19
- Students (with ID): $16
- Youth (12-17): $13
- Children (2-11): $8
- Free for children under 2 and on certain days (e.g., Canada Day).
Highlights:
- The Grand Hall, featuring Indigenous totem poles and artifacts.
- The Canadian History Hall, which provides an in-depth look at Canada’s history.
- The Children’s Museum, an interactive space for kids.
- IMAX Theatre for educational films.
Tips:
- Reserve tickets online to avoid long lines, especially during weekends and holidays.
- Plan at least 3-4 hours to explore the museum fully.
- Check for special exhibitions and events on their website.

2. National Gallery of Canada

Location: 380 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, ON
Category: Art
Entry Cost:
- Adults: $20
- Seniors (65+): $18
- Students (with ID): $10
- Youth (11-17): $10
- Free for children under 11 and on Thursdays from 5 PM to 8 PM.
Highlights:
- The iconic "Maman" spider sculpture by Louise Bourgeois outside the gallery.
- Extensive collections of Canadian, Indigenous, and international art.
- The Canadian and Indigenous Galleries, showcasing works from pre-colonial times to the present.
- Special exhibitions featuring renowned artists.
Tips:
- Visit on Thursday evenings for free admission.
- The gallery is large, so wear comfortable shoes and plan your visit using the map provided at the entrance.
- Photography is allowed in most areas but without flash.

3. Canadian War Museum

Location: 1 Vimy Place, Ottawa, ON
Category: Military History
Entry Cost:
- Adults: $19
- Seniors (65+): $17
- Students (with ID): $14
- Youth (12-17): $12
- Children (2-11): $8
- Free for children under 2 and on certain days (e.g., Canada Day).
Highlights:
- Extensive exhibits on Canada’s military history, from pre-colonial times to modern conflicts.
- The LeBreton Gallery, featuring tanks, artillery, and other military vehicles.
- The Memorial Hall, a solemn space for reflection.
Tips:
- Allocate at least 2-3 hours for your visit.
- Check for guided tours or audio guides to enhance your experience.
- The museum is family-friendly, with interactive exhibits for children.

4. Canada Science and Technology Museum

Location: 1867 St. Laurent Boulevard, Ottawa, ON
Category: Science and Technology
Entry Cost:
- Adults: $18
- Seniors (65+): $16
- Students (with ID): $13
- Youth (12-17): $12
- Children (2-11): $8
- Free for children under 2.
Highlights:
- Interactive exhibits on transportation, space, and technology.
- The Crazy Kitchen, a fun optical illusion experience.
- The Artifact Alley, showcasing historical technological artifacts.
Tips:
- Ideal for families with children due to its hands-on exhibits.
- Check the schedule for live demonstrations and workshops.
- Free parking is available on-site.

5. Canada Aviation and Space Museum

Location: 11 Aviation Parkway, Ottawa, ON
Category: Aviation and Space
Entry Cost:
- Adults: $18
- Seniors (65+): $16
- Students (with ID): $13
- Youth (12-17): $12
- Children (2-11): $8
- Free for children under 2.
Highlights:
- Over 130 aircraft and artifacts, including vintage planes and space exploration exhibits.
- Interactive flight simulators.
- The Canada in Space exhibit, focusing on Canadian contributions to space exploration.
Tips:
- Great for aviation enthusiasts and families.
- Guided tours are available and highly recommended.
- Combine your visit with the nearby Rockcliffe Park for a scenic outing.

6. Bytown Museum

Location: 1 Canal Lane, Ottawa, ON (near the Rideau Canal)
Category: Local History
Entry Cost:
- Adults: $10
- Seniors (65+): $8
- Students (with ID): $7
- Youth (12-18): $7
- Children (5-12): $5
- Free for children under 5.
Highlights:
- Focuses on the history of Ottawa, including the construction of the Rideau Canal.
- Housed in Ottawa’s oldest stone building.
Tips:
- A smaller museum, so 1-2 hours is sufficient.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Rideau Canal.

7. Ottawa Art Gallery (OAG)

Location: 50 Mackenzie King Bridge, Ottawa, ON
Category: Contemporary Art
Entry Cost: Free (donations encouraged)
Highlights:
- Focus on contemporary and local art, including works by the Group of Seven and Indigenous artists.
- Rotating exhibitions and community-focused events.
Tips:
- Check their website for free workshops and events.
- A great option for budget-conscious visitors.

8. Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum

Location: 3929 Carp Road, Carp, ON (about 30 minutes from downtown Ottawa)
Category: History
Entry Cost:
- Adults: $18
- Seniors (60+): $17
- Students (with ID): $14
- Youth (6-18): $11
- Free for children under 6.
Highlights:
- A four-story underground bunker built during the Cold War.
- Exhibits on Cold War history and nuclear preparedness.
Tips:
- Book tickets online in advance, as space is limited.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking through the bunker.

Local Considerations and Tips for Visiting Museums and Galleries in Ottawa

Weather: Ottawa experiences cold winters, so dress warmly if visiting during this time, especially for outdoor sculptures or walking between sites.
Transportation:
- Many museums are located downtown and are accessible by public transit (OC Transpo).
- Parking is available at most museums but may be limited during peak times.
Discounts:
- Many museums offer free or discounted admission on special days (e.g., Canada Day, Thursday evenings).
- Check for family passes or combination tickets for multiple museums.
Language: Ottawa is bilingual (English and French), and all museums provide information in both languages.
Special Events: Keep an eye out for special exhibitions, workshops, and events, especially during festivals like Winterlude or Canada Day.

Ottawa’s museums and galleries offer something for everyone, whether you’re an art lover, history buff, or science enthusiast. Plan your visits in advance to make the most of your time in this culturally rich city!